Yes, AirPods Pro 3 can function as FDA-authorized clinical-grade hearing aids for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
FDA Authorization
The FDA cleared the Hearing Aid Feature as the first over-the-counter hearing aid software for AirPods Pro. Both Pro 2 and Pro 3 support this feature.
Setup Process
- Go to Settings and tap your AirPods name
- Tap Hearing Assistance, then Set Up Hearing Assistance
- Take Apple's built-in Hearing Test (about 5 minutes) or import audiologist results
- AirPods create a personalized hearing profile
Customization Options
- Amplification level: How much surrounding sounds are boosted
- Left-right balance: Accounts for different hearing loss in each ear
- Tone adjustments: Emphasizes specific frequency ranges
- Conversation Boost: Focuses on the person speaking to you
Settings save directly on the AirPods and work even without your iPhone nearby.
Requirements
- iPhone or iPad with iOS 18 or later
- 18 years or older
- Designed for mild to moderate hearing loss
- Not available in all countries
Value Proposition
Traditional hearing aids cost thousands of dollars. At , AirPods Pro 3 offer an accessible entry point for people discovering hearing assistance needs.
Limitations
AirPods look like regular earbuds, so others may not realize you are using hearing assistance. Battery life drops to approximately 6-7 hours with hearing features active. Those with severe hearing loss should consult an audiologist.
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How we researched this
Where this comes from: this answer draws on the product's published specifications and the reviews ShopSavvy collected for it, alongside prices from 1 retailer in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen Oct 16, 2026.
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